Speaking to Channel Africa on Wednesday, Independent Democracy and Elections Analyst Professor Kealeboga Maphunye said the midterm election outcome amounted to a public judgment on Trump’s second term and could bring substantial domestic and foreign policy changes. “It looks like a referendum on Trump’s second term, and therefore it will have significant foreign policy implications,” Maphunye said.
Trump had campaigned heavily for Republican candidates, urging supporters to treat the elections as if the US President appeared on the ballot.
Maphunye said the Democratic victory was therefore likely to have surprised and disappointed Trump.
Democratic control of Congress gives the party greater power to investigate the administration, scrutinise spending and challenge legislation proposed by the White House.
Maphunye identified the economy and rising living costs as central concerns influencing voters.
Higher fuel prices linked to the US war with Iran had placed additional pressure on households, while some voters remained dissatisfied with employment opportunities. “The economy has been a big issue in this campaign, especially against the Republicans because of rising prices,” Maphunye said.
The Trump administration’s approach to migration may also have alienated some voters, including previous supporters of the Make America Great Again movement.
Maphunye said some Americans believed the government had gone too far through heavy-handed action against migrants seeking economic opportunities.
Foreign policy was another divisive issue. The US role in the Iran conflict, Russia’s war in Ukraine and continuing support for Israel may have influenced voters concerned about the cost and direction of international involvement.
Some moderate Republicans wanted Washington to reduce financial and political support for Israel without ending the longstanding relationship, Maphunye said.
Unemployment and unmet expectations among Latino, Native American and African-American voters who supported Republicans in 2024 may also have contributed to the result.
The Democratic victory could affect relations with South Africa and other countries experiencing tensions with the Trump administration. “This outcome is likely to be followed very closely by people globally,” Maphunye said.
–ChannelAfrica–
